Inform new staff/new school pupils affected by Critical Incidents where appropriate

Ensure that new staff is aware of the school policy and procedures in this area.

Ensure they are aware of which pupils were affected in any recent incident and in what way.

When individual pupils or a class of pupils affected by an incident are transferring to a new school, it would be useful to brief the Principal of the new school.

Decide on appropriate ways to deal with anniversaries (Be sensitive to special days and events)

Anniversaries may trigger emotional responses in students/staff and they may need additional support at this time.

Acknowledge the anniversary with the family

Be sensitive to significant days like Birthdays, Christmas, Mother’s Day, and Father’s Day.

Plan a school memorial service.

Care of deceased person’s possessions. What are the parent’s wishes?

Update and amend school records.

Emergency Contact List:

Critical Incident Management Team:

Aonghus Byrne – 087 6536669

Ann Farrelly – 087 7685106

Maria Carolan – 085 8584706

NEPS Office – 0761 075200

Philip Clarke(NEPS) – 087 2042714

Garda 999; 042 9667292

Fire Brigade 999; 112

GP Dr. McMahon – 042 – 9667487

HSE – Cavan Centre – 049 4361822

School Inspector (T McSorley) – 087 3296879

DES, Communications Unit Marlborough Street – 01 8896400

Clergy, Pastoral Care, Fr. Gerry McCormack – 042 – 9667314

Local Counselling Service – 042-9667186

Chairperson BOM – 086 8356049

Texts to contact other staff

Pupil contact lists in confidential files

Teacher contact lists in office

Policy subject to review annually

Sample Letters

Dear Parents,

The school has experienced (the sudden death, accidental injury) of one of our students. We are deeply saddened by the death/events.

(brief details of the incident and in the event of a death, perhaps some positive remembrances of the person lost)

We have support structures in place to help your child cope with this tragedy. (Elaborate)

It is possible that your child may have some feelings that he/she may like to discuss with you. You can help your child by taking time to listen and encouraging them to express their feelings. It is important to give them truthful information that is appropriate to their age.

If you would like advice or assistance you may contact the following people at the school (Details)

Yours sincerely

Aonghus Byrne

Dear Parents,

Following the recent (tragedy, death of X) we have arranged professional support for students in school who need particular help. (X) is available to help with this work. This support will usually consist of talking to children, either in small groups or on a one to one basis and offering reassurance and advice as appropriate.

We feel that ________ may benefit from meeting with the psychologist. If you would like your child to receive this support, please sign the attached permission slip and return it to the school by ______________

If you would like further information on the above or to talk to ___________, School Counsellor, please indicate this on the slip or telephone the school.